Suspension Sounds and Signs

Anyone who has driven an old car, especially a very old car, knows that sinking feel when you hear a new noise pulling out of the driveway. Car repair can be complex and costly, so it is important to know what to look and listen for when maintaining your vehicle. There are a few tell-tale signs of impending suspension problems that may give you the opportunity to prevent more costly repairs and replacements down the road. These are just a few simple sounds and signs to keep in mind.

Preventative Maintenance: 

The best way to prevent costly repairs and overhauls can be to regularly inspect your car's suspension components. You or service professionals can take several steps to anticipate future suspension problems by looking for clues each time you balance and rotate your tires or change your brake pads.

Tires and Joints:

Properly suspended tires should not move or have “play” when shaken while on jack stands. The nuts and bolts that hold each part together should be tightened to manufacturer's specifications. Bearings like ball joints and CV joints need to stay well lubricated and free from dust and debris to prevent wear. The rubber boots that cover ball and CV joints should remain sealed. Spotting these problems early may make correcting them easier.

Many forms of suspension wear can be observed in the form of looseness, noises while driving and leaking or cracked seals. Paying attention to and correcting these problems can halt further suspension damage and save you money on expensive repairs later.

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